McLaren was the self-proclaimed creator of punk music and fashion pioneer, who ran the notorious shop SEX in London with his ex-partner Westwood - one of the most successful British designers of the last 50 years - who has also paid tribute.

She said: "When we were young and I fell in love with Malcolm, I thought he was beautiful - and I still do.

"I thought he is a very charismatic, special and talented person. The thought of him dead is very sad."

After creating and managing the Sex Pistols and devising a number of publicity stunts with the group - including signing a record deal outside Buckingham Palace in London and releasing iconic anti-establishment single 'God Save The Queen' during the same week as Queen Elizabeth's Silver Jubilee in May 1977.

McLaren pursued other musical projects in the 80s and had solo hits with tracks such as 'Double Dutch' and 'Buffalo Gals'.

His influence on the worlds of media and music was vast and tributes have today (09.04.10) started to pour in.

Rock musician, journalist and punk historian Jon Savage said: "Without Malcolm McLaren there would not have been any British punk.

"He's one of the rare individuals who had a huge impact on the cultural and social life of this nation. I hope he'll be remembered with fondness."

McLaren's body is believed to be being flown back to England and he is expected to be buried in London.